Islands Adventures

Rangiroa

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Rangiroa, the largest atoll in French Polynesia and the second largest in the world, is made up of a string of coral islets as far as you can see around an immense lagoon. A veritable sea in the interior, it could contain the entire island of Tahiti.
“Rangiroa” or “Rairoa”, which literally means “long sky”, is the favorite destination of divers who come each year to experience “the big chill”. Its sensational underwater sites have been classified by Commander Jacques Cousteau as among the most beautiful and richest on the planet notably because of an exceptional concentration of gray sharks (raira), white tip reef sharks (tapete) or black tip reef sharks. There are sometimes hundreds which gather, occasionally joined by hammerhead sharks (tamataroa), manta or leopard rays and even more other species.
Persons who are less at ease in the ocean depths will find their happiness in the different excursions that will lead them to discover the motus (islets). The best known are isolated from the regular lodging areas (plan at least 1 hour by boat) but are, without question, well worth the detour. The Blue Lagoon with its natural pool bordered by coconut trees, the Reef Islands and their astonishing coral formations called “feo” or the sumptuous Pink Sand Motus are perfect for immersing oneself in the joys of bathing or snorkeling in an enchanting setting. It’s also the occasion to savor a picnic in the company of your Paumotu guides (inhabitants of the Tuamotu Islands) while curious little sharks come near the shore.
Other activities are possible near the villages of Avatoru and Tiputa, each carrying the name of the atoll’s two large passes: snorkeling with an incredible multitude of colored fish in the natural aquarium, a dolphin encounter, a visit to the two villages, a tour to the Green Lagoon and, even more surprising, discovery of the only vineyard in French Polynesia; installed a few years ago on Rangiroa in the heart of a coconut grove which produces a wine like no other. Sailing enthusiasts won’t be at a loss since cruise companies offer one of the most enjoyable experiences.
Avatoru, the main village, is where you’ll find the airport and the essential family pensions and hotels. Tiputa, less frequented, is only accessible by boat. The fine sand beaches are rare there but can be found instead on the innumerable islets that encircle the lagoon. Rangiroa and its marvels, a direct flight only 55 minutes by plane from Tahiti, offer you numerous protected havens of peace.

Photo gallery

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Districts :

Avatoru and Tiputa.

Population :

3 016 inhabitants.

Surface area :

1 640 sq km.

Do not miss :

• The Ohotu view point, where you can watch the dolphins jumping in the Tiputa pass,
• Pearl farms,
• Pink sand islands,
• The blue lagoon,
• The green lagoon,
• The island of reefs,
• The unique vineyard on a motu,
• Underwater diving sites : Shark Grotto, the Precipice, the Windmill, The Valley, The Aquarium, The Caves, Mahuta...

Things to do :

• Marine activities and excursions : snorkelling, scuba diving, boat trips, trimaran cruise, glass bottomed boat, visit of the wineyard on a motu.
• Land based activities : walking or bicycle tour of the island (rental), visit of Avatoru and Tiputa villages.
• Others : parascending ; attend to a church service.

Practical information :

• Post Office : yes. Several public call boxes.
• Shops : yes. a few. Boutiques in the hotels and a few handicraft outlets.
• Restaurants : yes. There are a few and the hotels and some family lodges open their restaurants to outside customers. We recommend half board (breakfast and dinner) ; that way you are free to have lunch elsewhere, especially when on excursions (picnics).
• Medical care : yes.

Flight schedule :

AIR TAHITI time-table and fares

Our accommodations in Rangiroa :

Our suggested single island packages

Our suggested island combos